Iolanda Cristina Gigliotti
- Born:
- January 17, 1933, Shoubra, Cairo, Egypt
- Died:
- May 3, 1987, Paris, France
- Nationality:
- French (naturalized), Italian (original)
- Profession(s):
- Singer, Actress
Early Life and Education
- Born to Italian parents residing in Egypt.
- Won a beauty contest, "Miss Egypt," in 1954.
- Relocated to Paris in 1954 to pursue an acting career.
Career and Major Achievements
- Quickly transitioned from acting to singing, achieving early success in cabarets and music halls.
- Won the prestigious "Coq d'Or" in 1956, marking a significant breakthrough in her career.
- Became one of the most successful and popular singers in French history.
- Recorded songs in multiple languages, including French, Italian, Arabic, Hebrew, German, and Spanish.
- Sold an estimated 170 million records worldwide.
- Starred in several films, showcasing her acting abilities alongside her singing career.
- Maintained a prominent presence in European music charts for over three decades.
Notable Works
Discography (Selection)
| Year | Album Title | Label |
|---|---|---|
| 1957 | Son Nom Est Dalida | Barclay |
| 1959 | Love in Portofino | Barclay |
| 1977 | Femme est la nuit | Carrere |
| 1981 | Olympia 81 | Carrere |
Filmography (Selection)
| Year | Film Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1954 | A Glass and a Cigarette | Herself |
| 1958 | Rapt au deuxième bureau | Singer |
| 1963 | L'Inconnue de Hong Kong | Herself |
Legacy and Impact
Dalida's powerful voice, captivating stage presence, and diverse repertoire made her an icon of French and international music. Despite personal struggles, she left behind a vast body of work that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. The complex life and enduring legacy of 'la sainte totoche dalida biography' reveals a multifaceted artist who achieved great success while battling profound personal challenges.